Limeade

1 1/2 C sugar
1 1/4 C lime juice
water - sparkling if you like

Combine sugar and lime juice in a saucepan; heat, stirring frequently, until sugar is completely dissolved; boil 2 minutes. Refrigerate until cold. Once cold, combine with about 5 cups of water and/or ice. Garnish with lime slices if desired.

GINGER-LIMEADE
Add 6 to 8 1/8" slices of fresh ginger when boiling the lime and sugar mixture. Boil mixture for 4-5 minutes instead of 2. Remove and discard ginger slices after boiling.